Local non-profits will see an influx of $40,000 to help vulnerable people impacted by COVID-19.

"Since the start of the pandemic, charities and non-profit organizations have been leading the charge to assist those who need it most in the fight against COVID-19," Winkler Community Foundation Executive Director Myra Peters says.

Seven organizations received grants through the Emergency Community Support Fund to address counselling, digital communication and programming, and weekly community meal programming needs. The funds came from the Government of Canada, flowing through the Winkler Community Foundation.

Projects included $12,500 invested to fund Central Station to address food insecurity, social isolation and mental health well-being by offering community meals twice a week while adhering to public health guidelines related to COVID-19.

-$1,000 was invested to fund South Central Regional Library to access online data tracking for summer reading program ensuring contactless participation.
-$3,000 was invested to fund Boundary Trails Health Care Foundation to purchase tablets and stands for patients to stay connected.
-$3,500 was invested to fund Pembina Counselling Centre to providing comfort and support to seniors, by connecting with them in person or via video, at a time when they are feeling isolated and disconnected.
-$7,500 was invested to fund Gateway Resources to purchase ipads and webcams for clients to access internet supported communication and learning, at a time when connection with family and friends and community is restricted.
-$6,500 was invested to fund Segue Career Options to offer client assistance for well-being through counselling and access to staff and employment enhancement services during periods of social distancing.
-$6,000 was invested to fund Regional Connections to create a laptop lending library for newcomer families without devices allowing families to access resources, services, and educational functions (public school).

"It's a satisfying feeling to see committed community organizations receive support through the Foundation," James Friesen, WCF Board Member says.